Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon

Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon or Sweet Gum Worplesdon is an excellent ornamental deciduous tree for UK gardens. Found in the mountains of the eastern United States, Sweet Gum trees were first introduced to the UK in 1681. Liquidambar trees are generally grown for their maple-like leaves which take on brilliant and long-lasting autumn colour although the yellow spring flowers are inconspicuous.

This Worplesdon cultivar has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit. The dense, rounded pyramidal crown makes this tree an excellent shade tree. The deep-lobed leaves of Sweet Gum Worplesdon are a light green when they unfurl in spring, changing to a glossy dark green over the summer, before finally turning brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow for a stunning autumn show.

Height and Spread of Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon
Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon will grow to a mature height of 10-15 metres and spread of 5-10 metres in 10 to 20 years.

How Hardy Is Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon?
Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon is hardy in all of the UK and northern Europe.

How to Use Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon
Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon is an excellent tree to use alone or as a group in a large lawn, where it will provide summer shade and then put on its magnificent autumn show of colour. It will grow happily in a woodland garden, or can be planted as a windbreak or hedge to create a dense living screen. Avoid very windy spots. The Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon cultivar does not develop the fruits or gumballs which can create litter underfoot in autumn, making it suitable for planting in high traffic areas.

How to Care for Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon
Plant Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon in full sun or partial shade in an exposed or sheltered position in rich, moist but well-drained loam, sand or clay soil with an acid to neutral pH. The autumn colour will be best in full sun. This tree has a moderate tolerance for aerosol salt, making it a good choice in coastal regions, while at the same time being suitable for city locations, as it has some tolerance for pollution. Sweet Gum Worplesdon is generally insect and disease resistant. Some pruning is necessary to remove drooping lower branches, but be sure to leave the main leader intact for the development of a symmetrical crown. Do not plant near paving, as the shallow roots might interfere with pavement.

Liquidambar Styraciflua Worplesdon is an excellent specimen tree for UK gardens; its attractive foliage, stately shape and stunning autumn colour show makes it a clear winner!